Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2019

Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
Agricultural Sciences Master
Major in Animal Sciences
Disciplinary Competences
LivestockSystems
751-6501-00L	Ruminant Science (HS)	W+	4 credits	4G	K. Giller, S. Goumon, A. Grahofer, U. Witschi
Abstract	The course provides the scientific basis of the central aspects of reproduction, husbandry and nutrition physiology of ruminants, and of the implications for animal welfare, product quality, breeding programs, and organic livestock systems. Means of knowledge transfer include interdisciplinary approaches, disciplinary parts, web-based learning and self-study.
Learning objective	At the end of the course the students are able to apply, by a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms, their knowledge in various fields of ruminant science. They will be able to develop and recommend best strategies for breeding programs, feed formulation, improving forage quality, increasing animal health and welfare etc. They will be trained to carry out interdisciplinary and disciplinary research at the highest level. The course Ruminant Science (FS) offered in spring has a similar structure but is complementary to this course.
Content	Fields (contact hours) - Introduction: 2 h - Special topics: 12 h - Lameness - Fertility in Cows - Food Intake of Ruminants - Disciplinary topics: 36 h - Ruminant Husbandry: 16 h - Ruminant Nutrition Physiology: 10 h - Reproduction in Ruminants: 8 h - Lectures held by the students: 4 h In summary - Contact hours: 52 h - Self-study within semester: 30 h (especially preparation for the interdisciplinary courses and the own lecture) - Self-study in semester break: 38 h Total: 120 h
Lecture notes	Documentations, links and other materials will be provided at the start of the course
Literature	Information on books and other references will be communicated during the course
Prerequisites / Notice	The specialty of this course is that for the first time the animal science disciplines are unified. This is realised with a particular emphasis on interdisciplinary special topics and new forms of teaching. At the same time the essential basics in the central fields are communicated. The field of Ruminant Science will also be a part of the spring semester (special topics: Organic Ruminant Systems, Tropical Ruminant Systems, Mastitis; disciplinary courses: Cattle, Sheep and Goat Breeding, Ruminant Diseases and Prophylaxis, Ruminant Nutrition and the Environment). However both courses are organized independently. Conditions for successful participation: Background on animal science from the Bachelor is desired. In order to attend the Minor in Ruminant Science without any animal science background, a realistic self-assessment concerning the need for additional self-study is recommended (e.g. by choosing an appropriate bachelor course which then may be counted as 'optional courses' in the master). These efforts depend on the extent to which animal science courses have already been attended in the bachelor. The control of performance will consist of: - an own short lecture - a final oral examination with focus on comprehension of the fundamental linkages rather than of specific details
751-6601-00L	Pig Science (HS)	W+	2 credits	2V	S. Goumon, A. Grahofer
Abstract	The overall goal of the course is to provide the essential scientific knowledge of the genetic, physiological and special nutritional aspects of pigs metabolism, animal health and behaviour, and of the implications for environment, product quality, housing and animal welfare, and breeding programs.
Learning objective	Students will - understand the complex interactions of nutrition, quality traits of products, breeding and reproduction, health management, behaviour and husbandry. - be trained to understand interdisciplinary and disciplinary research. - be able to critically analyze published research data. - be able to present precise scientific reports in oral and written form.
Content	Main topics in Pig Science: HS - Behaviour and Husbandry of pigs: natural behaviour, behavioral needs, husbandry related behavioral disorders, design and construction of housing systems in accordance with welfare requirements and legal regulations, welfare monitoring, pigs in organic farming. - Animal Health and Diseases: animal hygiene, immunology/vaccinations, metabolic diseaeses, diarrhoe, legisalation, thermoregulation, important infections, prophylaxis. - poster, exam and evaluation FS - Special Physiology of Pig Nutrition: food intake; growth; metabolism and digestion at different growth stages; energy and specific nutritional requirements; feeding systems; environmental aspects, efeed. - Genetics: Breeding systems, reproductive techniques, performance tests and recording, etc. - Welfare during transport and slaughter - oral presentation, exam, evaluation There will also be 2-3 excursions (1 HS, 1-2 FS)
Lecture notes	Handouts/scripts are distributed by the the lecturers.
Literature	Specific literature is indicated by the lecturers.
Prerequisites / Notice	The lecture corresponds to the lecture "Ruminant Science" and knowledge in animal health, nutrition and breeding as well as applied ethology and animal welfare are recommended. The lecture will be in English and German (depending on the lecturers)
751-6901-00L	Niches in Animal Production	W+	1 credit	1G	M. Kreuzer, M. Buchmann
Abstract	This course deals with unconventional animals or production forms and specific aspects of for keeping them in Europe or, more specifically, in Switzerland. This includes e.g. rare breeds, wild cattle, deer, camelids, ostrich and fish. Particular emphasis will be given to the regulations and the problems occurring with import, housing and marketing of the products.
Learning objective	At the end of the course the students are able to describe the conditions of keeping unconventional livestock and to develop recommendations for farmers intending to include niche production into the farm enterprise.
Content	The contact hour part of the course (16 h) is conceptually a block course which is subdivided into one day of lecture and one day of excursion. The non-contact hour part (14 h) is to comprehend the information given and to prepare for the examination
Lecture notes	A documentation will be provided at the start of the course.
Literature	Will be communicated at the start of the course.
Prerequisites / Notice	Lecture and excursion have the same weight with respect to time allocation. Credit point and grade are provided after an oral exam. Exam date will be fixed during lecture

Livestock Biology
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-7211-00L	Ruminal Digestion	W+	1 credit	1G	M. Terranova
Abstract	This course broadens the knowledge in one of the most important aspects of ruminant nutrition: the microbial digestion in the rumen (and in the hindgut). For a comprehensive understanding of the rumen microbial ecosystem, the mechanisms of nutrient fermentation and the synthesis of microbial protein, thorough basics are provided. Apart from lectures, group and laboratory exercises are included.
Learning objective	The course enables students to understand in detail how ruminal digestion works and how this knowledge can be applied to design optimal feeding diets using highly fibrous forages and a variety of other feeds. The students also are able to show how to modify the most important rumen microbes beneficially by nutritional means.
Content	Structure of the contact hour part of the course (14 h): 2 h Introduction and blackboard exercise 8 h Basic topics in ruminal digestion, lectures and group exercises: - Systematics of the microbes involved in microbial digestion - Measurement of microbial digestion - Interactions of microbes and epithelium of the digestive tract - Differences between ruminal and hindgut microbial digestion - Microbial nutrient degradation and its modification - Efficiency of microbial protein synthesis - Manipulation of the ruminal digestion 2 h Laboratory exercise with a rumen fistulated cow and a Rumen Simulation Technique 2 h Final seminar The non-contact hour part is to comprehend the information given and to prepare either the written report or the oral presentation (cf. "Besonderes")
Lecture notes	Lecture notes are provided via Moodle.
Literature	Will be communicated at the start of the course.
Prerequisites / Notice	The course is a balanced mixture of blackboard exercise, laboratory exercise, group exercise, lecture and student seminar presentation. Credit point associated with grade of either a written report or an oral presentation in the final seminar (both on a self-chosen related topic)
751-6113-00L	Endocrinology and Biology of Reproduction	W+	3 credits	2V	S. E. Ulbrich, S. M. Bernal Ulloa, A. Grahofer
Abstract	Endokrinologie und Reproduktionsbiologie der Säugetiere und des Menschen (Anatomie, Morphologie, Physiologie, Regelmechanismen) Die Systematik der Reproduktionshormone und der Hormonrezeptoren wird erläutert, die Wirkungsmechanismen (Bildung; orale Bioverfügbarkeit; Elimination) erklärt. Mit diesen Grundlagen wird das Verständnis der Regulation der Fortpflanzung umfassend erörtert.
Learning objective	Die Studierenden erlangen das grundlegende theoretische Verständnis und Fachwissen zur Endokrinologie der Reproduktion und zur weiblichen und männlichen Reproduktionsbiologie. Sie können darüber hinaus pathologische Situationen (Fortpflanzungsstörungen) und deren vielfältige Ursachen in den physiologischen Kontext einordnen.
751-7310-00L	Bioactive Food and Feed Components	W+	2 credits	2V	K. Giller
Abstract	The course provides students with the basic knowledge to understand the connection between the structure of nutritive and non-nutritive bioactive food and feed components and their effects on the nutrient supply and health of humans and livestock as well as on the quality of animal-derived foods.
Learning objective	At the end of this course, the students are aware of food and feed as sources of different bioactive compounds. By a comprehensive understanding of the connection between bioavailability, molecular mechanisms and biological effects, they are able to apply their knowledge on beneficial and detrimental effects of bioactive food and feed components in the fields of human and animal nutrition.
Content	The course gives an introduction into different classes of bioactive components present in food and feed including fatty acids and secondary plant compounds such as carotenoids, polyphenols, phytoestrogens, glucosinolates, protease inhibitors and monoterpenes. Topics include: - sources of bioactive food and feed components - bioavailability and modification in the gastrointestinal tract - beneficial and detrimental effects - molecular mechanisms of biological effects - species differences concerning metabolism and biological effects
Lecture notes	The teaching slides and other materials will be provided during the course.
Literature	Information about books and other references will be communicated during the course.

Livestock Genetics
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-6243-00L	Conservation of Animal Genetic Resources	W+	1 credit	1V	H. Signer-Hasler, C. Flury
Abstract	“Conservation of Animal Genetic Resources” overviews the distribution, endangerment and conservation of farm animal genetic resources in Switzerland and abroad. The theory is illustrated with numerous examples and the knowledge is deepened in exercises.
Learning objective	The students - overview the distribution and endangerment of animal genetic resources on national and international level and they know, where to find the relevant information. - can explain, what value can be assigned to biodiversity and name reasons, why biodiversity should be conserved. - know the national and international efforts of the present and the past to conserve biodiversity in the livestock sector. - can explain what is important concerning the management of small populations. - can explain differences between species and breeds concerning biodiversity conservation. - can describe different conservation activities, in particular in situ and ex situ conservation - can describe current national and international conservation programmes for species and breeds.
751-6305-00L	Applied Genetic Evaluation in Livestock	W	3 credits	3G	P. von Rohr
Abstract	Swiss routine breeding value estimation/genetic evaluation systems of cattle, pig, sheep and goats are presented with methods and evaluated traits. Examples will be demonstrated using the statistical software R.
Learning objective	The students know the theoretical and practical application of breeding value estimation in Switzerland for cattle, pig, sheep and goats. The students are able to interpret estimated breeding values.
Content	basic principles of genetic evaluations Applied genetic evaluation in cattle (data, methods, traits, national and international genetic evaluations) Applied genetic evaluation in pigs (data, methods, traits) Applied genetic evaluation in sheep and goats (data, methods, traits)
Lecture notes	Course notes in the form of a monograph, copies of the slides and solutions to the exercise questions are available on the net.
Literature	To be announced in the lectures.

Methodology Competences
Methods for Scientific Research
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-3801-00L	Experimental Design and Applied Statistics in Agroecosystem Science	W	3 credits	2G	A. Hund, W. Eugster, C. Grieder, R. Kölliker
Abstract	Different experimental designs will be discussed and various statistical tools will be applied to research questions in agroecosystem sciences. Statistical methods range from simple analysis of variance to mixed-models and multivariate statistics. Surveys and manipulative field and laboratory experiments are addressed and students learn to analyse data using a hands-on approach.
Learning objective	Students will know various statistical analyses and their application to science problems in their study area as well as a wide range of experimental design options used in environmental and agricultural sciences. They will practice to use statistical software packages (R), understand pros and cons of various designs and statistics, and be able to statistically evaluate their own results as well as those of published studies.
Content	The course program uses a learning-by-doing approach ("hands-on minds-on"). New topics are introduced in the lecture hall, but most of the work is done in the computer lab to allow for the different speeds of progress of the student while working with data and analyzing results. In addition to contact hours exercises must be finalized and handed in for grading. The credit points will be given based on successful assessments of selected exercises. The tentative schedule containst the following topics: Introduction To Experimental Design and Applied Statistics Introduction to 'R' / Revival of 'R' Skills Designs of Field and Growth Chamber Experiments Nonlinear Regression Fits Multivariate Techniques: Principle Component Analysis, Canonical Correpondence Analysis (CCA), Cluster Analysis ANOVA using linear and mixed effect models Error Analysis, Error Propagation and Error Estimation Introduction to autoregression and autocorrelations in temporal and spatial data and how to consider them in ANOVA-type analysis This course does not provide the mathematical background that students are expected to bring along when signing up to this course. Alternatively, students can consider some aspects of this course as a first exposure to solutions in experimental design and applied statistics and then deepen their understanding in follow-up statistical courses.
Lecture notes	Handouts will be available (in English)
Literature	A selection of suggested additional literature, especially for German speaking students will be presented in the introductory lecture.
Prerequisites / Notice	This course is based on the course Mathematik IV: Statistik, passed in the 2nd year and the Bachelor's course "Wissenschaftliche Datenauswertung und Datenpräsentation" (751-0441-00L)
751-6127-00L	Practical Course in Microscopy of Functional Histology	W+	3 credits	6P	P. Papa, A.‑K. Hankele
Abstract	Die "Funktionelle Histologie" beschreibt die histologischen und zytologischen Strukturen mit ihren jeweiligen Aufgaben und Wechselwirkungen innerhalb ausgewählter Organsysteme. Die endokrinologisch relevanten Organe und deren Präparation werden am Beispiel des Rindes kennengelernt.
Learning objective	Grundlagen der Histologie; Gewebedünnschnitte (Gefrier- und Paraffinschnitte) und deren Übersichtsfärbungen und Immunhistochemie; Fortgeschrittene Mikroskopie von Gewebedünnschnitten; Kritische Bewertung von Physiologie/Pathologie aufgrund morphologisch/histologischer Kriterien
Content	Jeder/m Studierenden wird ein Organ zugeteilt, mit welchem sie/er sich intensiv theoretisch und praktisch auseinandersetzt. Anhand dieses Organes als rotem Faden, welches vom Schlachthof bereitgestellt und von den Studierenden selber seziert, eingebettet, geschnitten, gefärbt und mikroskopiert wird, werden die Lernziele erreicht. Die theoretischen Grundlagen werden in der Vorbereitung zum Kurs selbstständig erarbeitet. Zur Vorbereitung dient ein ausführliches Skript über die Herstellung mikroskopischer Präparate, zu Übersichtsfärbungen und zu den Prinzipien der Immunohistologie sowie zu den mikroskopischen Techniken und originäre Literatur über die Funktion des Organs in Zusammenhang mit agrarwissenschaftlichem Kontext. Die Theorie wird im Kurs im Detail vertieft und diskutiert. Im Praktikum werden das Erstellen von Gewebedünnschnitten (Kryo- und Paraffinschnitte) und das Mikroskopieren von gefärbten und ungefärbten Gewebeschnitten selbstständig durchgeführt. Die Techniken der Übersichtsfärbungen werden angewandt und durch den Nachweis spezifischer Proteine mittels Immunhistochemie ergänzt. Die Darstellung und Erkennung von Einzelstrukturen ermöglicht ein Verständnis für das jeweils übergeordnete endokrine System, in dessen Zusammenhang das Organ steht. Pathologische Veränderungen werden Präparationsartefakten gegenübergestellt und somit eine kritische Bewertung von Beurteilungen aufgrund morphologischer Kriterien vorgenommen. Aktivitäten: 5 Tage Praktischer Kurs mit theoretischen Einheiten, Vorbereitung der theoretischen Grundlagen im Selbststudium im Vorfeld, eine mündliche Präsentation der erhaltenen Ergebnisse und eine schriftliche Zusammenfassung (Arbeitsbericht) nach Abschluss des Kurses.
Prerequisites / Notice	In Form eines Vortrags werden den anderen TeilnehmerInnen das zugeteilte Organ bzw Gewebe bezüglich der Morphologie, Histologie und funktioneller Gesichtspunkte vorgestellt. In der Nachbereitung zum Praktikum wird ein Bericht angefertigt, in dem die Vorgehensweise (Verfahrensprotokoll), die Befunde (Ergebnisprotokoll) und die kritische Auseinandersetzung mit den Inhalten des Praktikums (kritische Beurteilung) dokumentiert werden.
751-6129-00L	Practical Course Epigenetics	W+	3 credits	6P	M. Saenz de Juano Ribes
Abstract	The practical course will comprise lecture elements on introducing the topic of epigenetics in detail to you and a large amount of practical work where you will be able to perform DNA methylation analyses on your own. We will focus on DNA extraction, the estimation of Global DNA Methylation and Gene-specific Methylation.
Learning objective	The competencies and aims for the course are as follows: Get first hands-on experience with the experimental techniques. Answer a scientific question by conducting an experiments Present the principle of different techniques to other students Obtain results of an experiment and get insight into what affects technical variation and thus influences reproducibility Interpret results in an adequate manner to solve a scientific question. Combine results to draw an adequate conclusion. Present an epigenetics research paper.
Lecture notes	You will receive a draft outline of the week, the slides of the theoretical parts and a detailed protocol of the work we will do in advance of the practical course.
Prerequisites / Notice	For receiving a total of 3 Credit Points for this practical course we kindly ask you to actively take part in the practical performance. You need to pass a 30 min written examination about the theoretical background of the techniques, approaches and the background. In addition, we ask you to present an original research paper. You will receive the paper in advance for preparation. We will ask you to prepare a 30 min presentation with a following discussion. Next to the presentation of your scientific paper you are asked to address questions of the presentations of your colleagues and actively take part in the discussion. Finally, we will ask you to write a lab report to be handed in at the beginning of the spring semester.

Project Management for Scientific Research
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-6001-00L	Forum: Livestock in the World Food System	W+	2 credits	1S	M. Kreuzer, S. M. Bernal Ulloa, S. Goumon, A. Grahofer, S. Neuenschwander
Abstract	This forum is a platform for the critical reflection of highly relevant topics of livestock in the frame of the world food system comprising issues from basic knowledge to acceptance in society. The exchange is operated by scientific writing and presentation.
Learning objective	In the Forum "Livestock in the World Food System", a topic of significance for livestock agriculture is selected by the students and subsequently dealt with from various angles (from scientific basis to production systems, environmental aspects and to the acceptance by society). The students learn to present a scientific subject in writing and orally to an audience and to defend the presentation in a discussion.
Content	The Forum "Livestock in the World Food System" will take place in blocks of 2 hours each. Once the general topic has been selected, it comprises two elements: Element 1. Oral Presentation: The students form small groups and are lecturers. There are chair persons (moderators) from outside of these small groups and they also head the discussion. The remaining students and lecturers are the audience. Element 2. Scientific writing: Option 1: preparation of a short scientific type of paper from a result table offered by the lecturers; Option 2: preparation of an abstract with limited word count from a scientific paper; Option 3: writing of a critical review of a paper. The students have to select 2 of the three options each. There will be a discussion be a discussion in small groups at two dates. Introductions to both forms of presentation will be offered by lecturers. The preparation of the oral and written presentations takes place to a small part during the 2-h blocks and mainly outside of this time.
Lecture notes	no scriptum
Prerequisites / Notice	Requirements for allocation of the two credit points: - Theatre presentation (with handout) at the forum - Delivery of written documents of sufficient quality - Active participation during the presentations by the other participants
751-6003-00L	Training Course in Research Groups (Large)	W+	6 credits	13P	M. Kreuzer, S. M. Bernal Ulloa, S. Neuenschwander, H. Pausch, M. Saenz de Juano Ribes, S. E. Ulbrich
Abstract	The students will learn the conceptual and methodological background of research in the animal science groups of the Institute of Plant, Animal and Agroecosystem Science. In addition to teaching the theoretical background, the major aim of the course is to integrate the students into the research groups (on job training) and, hence, to focus on the practical application of the knowledge.
Learning objective	- Introduction into the conceptual and methodological basis of research - Integration of the students into the research groups (on job training) - Application of the gained knowledge
Content	The students will be integrated into the research groups’ day-to-day work and will thus deal with all aspects of scientific work. This comprises the planning (conceptually and logistically), execution (data collection, laboratory analyses) and evaluation (statistics, data presentation) of experiments as well as the basics of scientific writing (aim: later publication, Master thesis). The research topics and the range of methodologies vary between the animal science research groups in the Institute of Plant, Animal and Agroecosystem Sciences.
Lecture notes	None
Literature	Specific readings after enlisting in a particular research group.
Prerequisites / Notice	The number of training slots in the various groups is limited. It is therefore highly recommended to contact the group leaders early enough (first come first serve). The full integration in a research group often means to work on weekends. The total time budget is equivalent to about 180 hours. Active participation in group meetings (discussion, presentation) and short written reports about the work conducted are required for the 6 credit points. There are no grades, it is only pass or fail.
751-6003-01L	Training Course in Research Groups (Small)	W+	3 credits	6P	M. Kreuzer, S. M. Bernal Ulloa, S. Neuenschwander, H. Pausch, M. Saenz de Juano Ribes, S. E. Ulbrich
Abstract	The students will learn the conceptual and methodological background of research in the animal science groups of the Institute of Plant, Animal and Agroecosystem Science. In addition to teaching the theoretical background, the major aim of the course is to integrate the students into the research groups (on job training) and, hence, to focus on the practical application of the knowledge.
Learning objective	- Introduction into the conceptual and methodological basis of research - Integration of the students into the research groups (on job training) - Application of the gained knowledge
Content	The students will be integrated into the research groups’ day-to-day work and will thus deal with all aspects of scientific work. This comprises the planning (conceptually and logistically), execution (data collection, laboratory analyses) and evaluation (statistics, data presentation) of experiments as well as the basics of scientific writing (aim: later publication, Master thesis). The research topics and the range of methodologies vary between the animal science research groups in the Institute of Plant, Animal and Agroecosystem Sciences.
Lecture notes	None
Literature	Specific readings after enlisting in a particular research group.
Prerequisites / Notice	The number of training slots in the various groups is limited. It is therefore highly recommended to contact the group leaders early enough (first come first serve). The full integration in a research group often means to work on weekends. The total time budget is equivalent to about 90 hours. Active participation in group meetings (discussion, presentation) and short written reports about the work conducted are required for the 3 credit points. There are no grades, it is only pass or fail.
751-5201-00L	Tropical Cropping Systems, Soils and Livelihoods (With Excursion)	W+	5 credits	5G	J. Six, A. Hofmann
Abstract	This course guides students in analyzing and comprehending tropical agroecosystems and food systems. Students gain practical knowledge of field methods, diagnostic tools and survey methods for tropical soils and agroecosystems. An integral part of the course is the two-week field project in Ethiopia, which is co-organized with Arba Minch University (Ethiopia) and KU Leuven (Belgium).
Learning objective	(1) Overview of the major land use systems in the East African Rift valley. (2) Transdisciplinary analysis of agricultural production systems in Southern Ethiopia. (3) Hands-on training on the use of field methods, diagnostic tools and survey methods. (4) Collaboration in international student teams (MSc students from Switzerland, Belgium and Ethiopia)
Prerequisites / Notice	The field project in Ethiopia will take place from Nov. 16 to Dec. 1, 2019. The number of participants of this class is limited to 20 students due to capacity limitations for the field project in Ethiopia. Participating students are strongly recommended to verify with lecturers from other courses whether their absence of two weeks may affect their performance in the respective courses. If you have questions regarding this class, please contact: anett.hofmann@usys.ethz.ch

Major in Plant Sciences
Disciplinary Competences
Agronomy and Plant Breeding
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-4104-00L	Alternative Crops	W+	2 credits	2V	A. Walter, B. Büter, E. A. Pérez Torres
Abstract	Few crops dominate the crop rotations worldwide. Following the goal of an increased agricultural biodiversity, species such as buckwheat but also medicinal plants might become more important in future. The biology, physiology, stress tolerance and central aspects of the value-added chain of the above-mentioned and of other alternative crops will be depicted.
Learning objective	During this course, students learn to assess the potential of different minor or alternative crops compared to the dominant major crops based on their biological and agronomical features. Each student will assess and present a specific alternative crop of his or her choice based on information from scientific articles and Wikipedia. Wikipedia-entries will be generated.
751-3603-00L	Current Challenges in Plant Breeding Number of participants limited to 15.	W+	2 credits	2G	B. Studer, A. Hund
Abstract	The seminar 'Current challenges in plant breeding' aims to bring together national and international experts in plant breeding to discuss current activities, latest achievements and future prospective of a selected topic/area in plant breeding. The topic this year will be: 'Natural versus induced genetic variation for plant breeding'.
Learning objective	The educational objectives cover both thematic competences and soft skills: Thematic competences: - Deepening of scientific knowledge in plant breeding - Critical evaluation of current challenges and new concepts in plant breeding - Promotion of collaboration and Master thesis projects with practical plant breeders Soft skills: - Independent literature research to get familiar with the selected topic - Critical evaluation and consolidation of the acquired knowledge in an interdisciplinary team - Establishment of a scientific presentation in an interdisciplinary team - Presentation and discussion of the teamwork outcome - Establishing contacts and strengthening the network to national and international plant breeders and scientist
Content	Interesting topics related to plant breeding will be selected in close collaboration with the working group for plant breeding of the Swiss Society of Agronomy (SSA). For this year, the topic 'Natural versus induced genetic variation for plant breeding' was selected. In the fall semester (in November 2019), the enrolled students will meet with the lecturers as well as four to six tutors, selected according to their expertise in the selected topic (one afternoon, for about two hours). After an input talk by the lecturers, four to six specific questions/aspects will be identified and phrased. The tutors and the enrolled students will be assigned to four to six different groups, to critically evaluate one question/aspect of the selected topic. The students, guided by tutors, will prepare a presentation of 15 minutes (plus 5 minutes discussion) covering their specific question/aspect. Participation on that afternoon will be mandatory. On January 28, 2020, a one-day seminar on the selected topic will be organized. The presentations of the students will be complemented with keynote talks from national and international experts, to discuss and critically evaluate the selected topic/area. The seminar will be public and serve as annual meeting of the SSA working group for plant breeding, bringing together the experts in plant breeding. During the reception after the seminar, there will be the opportunity to connect and interact with other seminar participants. The course is designed for a maximum of 15 Master students and 10 PhD students (advertised and recruited via the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center). For full and active participation, a total of 2 credit/ECTS points will be provided.
Lecture notes	no
Literature	Peer-reviewed research articles, selected according to the selected topic/area.
Prerequisites / Notice	Participation in the BSc course 'Pflanzenzüchtung' is strongly recommended, a completed course in 'Molecular Plant Breeding' is highly advantageous.
751-4704-00L	Weed Science	W+	3 credits	2G	B. Streit, U. J. Haas
Abstract	Modern weed management comprises competent knowledge of weed biology, weed ecology, population dynamics, crop-weed-interactions and different measures to control weeds. Weeds are understood to be rather part of a habitat or a cropping system than just unwanted plants in crops.
Learning objective	At the end of the course the students are qualified to develop sustainable solutions for weed problems in agricultural and natural habitats.
Content	Modern weed management comprises competent knowledge of weed biology, weed ecology, population dynamics, crop-weed-interactions and different measures to control weeds. Weeds are understood to be rather part of a habitat or a cropping system than just unwanted plants in crops. Accordingly, this knowledge will be imparted during the course and will be required to understand the mechanisms of integrated weed control strategies.

Crop Health
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-5121-00L	Insect Ecology	W+	2 credits	2V	C. De Moraes, M. Mescher, N. Stanczyk
Abstract	This is an introductory class on insect ecology. During the course you will learn about insect interactions with and adaptations to their environment and other organisms, and the importance of insect roles in our ecosystems. This course includes lectures, small group discussions and outside readings.
Learning objective	The aim of the course is to gain an understanding of how insects have specialised and adapted to occupy diverse environmental niches and become vital to ecosystem processes. Important topics include insect-plant interactions, chemical ecology, predatory-prey interactions, vectors of disease, social insects, mutual and parasitic interactions and examining insect ecology in an evolutionary context.
Lecture notes	Provided to students through ILIAS
Literature	Selected required readings (peer reviewed literature). Optional recommended readings with additional information.
751-4811-00L	Alien Organisms in Agriculture Number of participants limited to 30.	W+	2 credits	2G	J. Collatz, M. Meissle
Abstract	The course focuses on alien organisms in agriculture as well as the scientific assessment and regulatory management of their effects on the environment and agricultural production.
Learning objective	Students will understand the consequences arising from the unintentional or deliberate introduction of alien organisms into agricultural systems. They will be able to understand the concept of environmental risk assessment and be able to evaluate risk management options.
Content	Alien organisms in agriculture is a topic that receives an increasing awareness among farmers, agricultural scientists, regulators and the general public. Students of this course will learn about the nature of alien organisms such as invasive species, biocontrol organisms and genetically modified organisms. With a particular focus on arthropods, plants and their interactions we will look at the potential threats the novel organisms pose, the benefits they provide and how both of these effects can be scientifically assessed. Students will learn how the topic of alien organisms in agriculture is intrinsically tied to policy making and regulation and get to know current examples and future challenges in research. In the last part of the course students will be able to apply the acquired knowledge in a practical exercise (case study).
Lecture notes	Material will be distributed during the course

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